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Science News for July 2, 2014


New insights into the treatment of children and youth exposed to acts of terror

Researchers provide new guidelines for treatment of children and youth exposed to acts of terror, emphasizing the need for proactive outreach efforts that continue for at least two years. The study also highlights the crucial role of teachers in providing trauma-informed support, ensuring students can continue learning despite trauma.

SourceNorwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies·JournalEuropean Journal of Psychotraumatology·DateJul 2, 2014

Trial examines treatment for psychogenic nonepileptic seizures

A clinical trial found that patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) experienced a significant reduction in seizures and improvements in related symptoms, including depression and anxiety, when treated with cognitive behavioral therapy informed psychotherapy (CBT-ip) alone or in combination with the medication sertraline....

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJul 2, 2014
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Major gaps in hepatitis C care identified as new drugs and screening efforts emerge

A new meta-analysis of 10 studies found that less than 10% of people infected with hepatitis C are cured, while only 50% were diagnosed and aware of their infection. The study highlights the need for improved screening efforts and increased access to treatment, particularly for baby boomers who may not be aware they have the disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 2, 2014

Lights out… light pollution alters reproduction cycle in lemurs

Researchers found that light pollution disrupts the reproductive cycle of mouse lemurs, causing testes to grow larger and testosterone levels to increase. The study also showed that light pollution affects the daily activity pattern of lemurs, delaying their nocturnal behavior.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 2, 2014

Boron tolerance discovery for higher wheat yields

Researchers from the University of Adelaide have identified specific genes in wheat that enable tolerance to boron toxicity, a significant yield-limiting soil condition. This discovery will help plant breeders develop new varieties with increased yields to feed the growing world population.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2014

Researchers invent 'meta mirror' to help advance nonlinear optical systems

Researchers at UT Austin have created a nonlinear metasurface that can reflect radiation at twice the input light frequency, producing approximately 1 million times larger frequency-doubled output. The new metamaterial has potential applications in advanced laser systems for chemical sensing and biomedical research.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2014
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Little benefit seen when corticosteroids added to injections for spinal stenosis

Researchers found that adding glucocorticoid to local anesthetic epidural injections provided minimal or no additional pain relief and physical limitations improvement. Corticosteroids may have caused increased satisfaction but also more adverse events, calling into question their routine use.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 2, 2014

Insect diet helped early humans build bigger brains, study suggests

A study suggests that early humans who relied on an insect diet during lean seasons may have developed bigger brains and higher-level cognitive functions. Capuchin monkeys' foraging patterns for insects reveal a link between seasonal food scarcity and sensorimotor skills, including tool use and problem-solving.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateJul 2, 2014

Research could lead to dramatic energy savings at data farms

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a wireless network on a computer chip that can reduce energy consumption in data farms. The technology allows for wireless links between cores, resulting in less energy loss and higher data transfer speed.

SourceWashington State University·JournalACM Journal on Emerging Technologies in Computing Systems·DateJul 2, 2014
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Foodborne bacteria not as harmless to chickens as previously thought

Researchers discovered that foodborne pathogen Campylobacter jejuni can cause problems in chickens' gut and damage their feet and legs when they walk through contaminated excrement. The bacteria's impact varied among breeds, with one showing significant damage to the gut and developing diarrhea.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateJul 2, 2014

Genetically driven gut feelings help female flies choose a mate

In a study published in Current Biology, researchers found that the Abdominal-B gene controls a set of neurons responsible for a major part of female fly receptivity. This discovery provides insight into the neural circuitry that drives courtship behavior on the female side.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 2, 2014

Some stem cell methods closer to 'gold standard' than others

A new study finds that stem cells created by moving genetic material from a skin cell into an empty egg cell more closely resemble human embryonic stem cells than traditionally induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. The method, known as nuclear transfer, results in cells with fewer reprogramming issues and better gene expression patterns.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2014

Overcoming light scattering: New optical system sees deeper inside tissue

Researchers have developed a single-pixel optical system that can overcome light scattering in tissue, enabling transmission of images through scattering media. The technique uses compressive sensing to compress large data files as they are measured, allowing it to reconstruct the image and penetrate deeper into tissue.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateJul 2, 2014
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Extinct human cousin gave Tibetans advantage at high elevation

Scientists have discovered that Tibetans inherited a gene from their extinct human cousin, the Denisovans, which helps them adapt to high-altitude plateaus with low oxygen levels. This variant of the EPAS1 gene allows Tibetans to survive at elevations above 15,000 feet without cardiovascular problems.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2014

A tale of a tail -- Kangaroos' powerful 'fifth leg'

A Simon Fraser University study found that kangaroos employ a unique pentapedal gait, utilizing their tail in combination with front and hind legs to generate significant propulsive force. This discovery sheds light on the importance of timing and positioning during movement, particularly for individuals with mobility impairments.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 2, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Martian salts must touch ice to make liquid water, study shows

Researchers found that Martian salts can melt ice they touch, forming liquid water within minutes. The discovery suggests small amounts of liquid water could exist across large swaths of Mars' surface, potentially supporting microbial life.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 2, 2014

Fine-scale climate model projections predict malaria at local levels

Researchers used a statistical technique to downscale global climate models and found that population centers in cool, highland regions of East Africa may be more vulnerable to malaria than previously thought. The study suggests that fine-scale predictions can improve local adaptation and mitigation strategies.

SourcePenn State·JournalClimatic Change·DateJul 2, 2014

Flood fear has temporary effect on property prices: QUT study

A QUT study found that flood fear had a minimal on-going effect on property prices, with low-value suburbs being the exception. Middle and high-value homes in Brisbane experienced price rebounds within 12 months after the 2011 floods.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNatural Hazards·DateJul 2, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

A 'magic moment' for unwed parents

A new study from Duke University found that unwed parents are more likely to marry when their child is young, with the 'magic moment' lasting longer than previously thought. However, the study also revealed that many of these marriages are fragile and do not last.

SourceDuke University·JournalDemography·DateJul 2, 2014

Scientists can now screen for stem cells that enhance corneal regrowth

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a method to collect the best cell type for regenerating damaged corneas, with purified human stem cells showing promise in improving long-term vision in mice. The discovery is expected to quickly translate into improved human therapies and could potentially restore the corneal surface.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2014

Finally, a mug shot for a crop-killing NH pest

Researchers at UNH's NHAES identified over 600 species of leafhoppers in New Hampshire, with about 40 being economically significant due to their disease-carrying abilities. The team found six leafhopper species known to carry X-disease, and provided guidance on management techniques to reduce the risk of outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateJul 2, 2014

Inspired by nature, researchers create tougher metal materials

Scientists have developed a method to create stronger and more ductile metal materials by adjusting the internal structure, similar to bone and bamboo. This technique can be customized for various applications, including improving industrial steel's strength and ductility.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2014

Purdue-designed tool helps guide brain cancer surgery

A Purdue-designed tool uses mass spectrometry to analyze brain tumor tissue, providing color-coded images that reveal the location and nature of tumor cells. The tool has been successfully used in two surgical procedures, offering a significant improvement over current methods.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2014
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Long jumpers do better with a spring in their step

Researchers found that taking off from a compliant surface like a springboard reduces the energy cost of long jumps compared to firm surfaces. This is due to a closer optimal take-off angle for maximum energy efficiency. For shorter distances, no difference was observed in energy expenditure between firm and springy surfaces.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 2, 2014

Nuclear transfer appears superior for creating embryonic stem cells

Scientists at OHSU have found that nuclear transfer is superior to iPS method in reprogramming human skin cells into embryonic stem cells, with the former producing stem cells almost identical to those from in vitro fertilized eggs. The study's findings hold major implications for developing better embryonic stem cells and therapies.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2014

A million times better

Researchers at TUM and UT Austin developed nonlinear mirrors that reflect frequency-doubled output using input light intensity as small as a laser pointer. The new materials produce approximately one million times higher intensity of frequency-doubled output compared to traditional materials.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2014
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

'Bone-house wasp' uses dead ants to protect their nest

A new species of spider wasp, the Bone-house Wasp, uses dead ants as a unique nest-protection strategy, resulting in lower parasitism rates. The study found that this behavior is likely linked to chemical cues emanating from the dead ants.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 2, 2014

NASA sees a weaker Tropical Storm Douglas

Tropical Storm Douglas is weakening due to cooler waters and drier air in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. The storm's maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 45 mph, with forecasters predicting a gradual decline in strength over the next day.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 2, 2014

Hair from mummy's clothes provides insights into red deer lineage

A study published in PLOS ONE analyzed Neolithic deer hair from the Tyrolean Iceman's clothing to shed light on red deer lineage. The results indicate that Alpine Copper Age red deer falls within the western European lineage, contrasting with current populations in the Italian Alps which belong to the eastern lineage.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 2, 2014
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Stem cell type resists chemotherapy drug

A new study reveals that adipose-derived human stem cells can withstand high doses of the chemotherapy drug methotrexate, unlike other cell types. This finding has significant implications for developing an ASC-based therapy to promote bone growth and regeneration in cancer patients.

SourceBrown University·JournalExperimental Cell Research·DateJul 2, 2014

Becoming an expert takes more than practice

A recent study published in Psychological Science found that accumulated practice accounts for only about 12% of individual differences in performance across various domains. The study suggests that domain-specific factors, such as age and cognitive abilities, may play a more significant role in determining expertise.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 2, 2014

The plant that only grows when the going's good…

Scientists have identified a new mutant plant that stores excessive amounts of starch, allowing it to maintain its size despite reduced sucrose availability. The NEX1 mutant combines high growth rates with large starch reserves, making it an attractive candidate for crops used as silage and human feed.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 2, 2014

Alcohol backing raises risk of athletes drinking more

A new study found that alcohol sponsorship in UK athletes is associated with higher odds of hazardous drinking and increased consumption. Sportspeople sponsored by an alcohol-related industry had higher rates of problem drinking compared to non-sponsored athletes.

SourceMonash University·JournalAddiction·DateJul 2, 2014
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

The BMJ calls for Assisted Dying Bill to become law

The BMJ editorial advocates for the Assisted Dying Bill, citing a strong public consensus of 82% in favor, as well as Oregon's experience with assisted dying legislation. The bill aims to allow terminally ill adults to end their lives with medical assistance.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 2, 2014

First national model for bovine TB calls for more focus on cattle

A new national model for bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in Great Britain highlights the need for improved testing, vaccination of cattle, and culling infected farms as effective strategies. The majority of herd outbreaks are caused by multiple transmission routes, including failed tests, cattle movement, and environmental reservoirs.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2014

Acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease each a risk of the other

Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are interconnected diseases sharing common risk factors and causes. The NIH study suggests that patients with either condition should be monitored for the other, as pre-existing CKD increases the odds of AKI by 10 times and vice versa.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 2, 2014
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Brisk walking may improve symptoms of Parkinson's

A study published in Neurology found that brisk walking improved motor function, mood, and tiredness by up to 15%, as well as increased aerobic fitness and gait speed. Participants who walked for 45 minutes, three times a week, over six months showed significant improvements in their symptoms.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 2, 2014

UTMB study shows testosterone therapy does not increase heart attack risk

A new US-based study of over 25,000 older men shows that testosterone therapy is not associated with an increased risk of heart attack. In fact, men with cardiovascular problems who used testosterone had a lower rate of heart attacks compared to those who did not.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalAnnals of Pharmacotherapy·DateJul 2, 2014

Making dreams come true: Making graphene from plastic?

A domestic research team created a carbon material without artificial defects, maintaining graphene's characteristics, and developed a simpler production process. The new method can mass-produce high-quality graphene substitutes for solar cells and semiconductor chips.

SourceKorea Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNanoscale·DateJul 2, 2014

Causes of serious pain syndrome closer to discovery

Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding CRPS by replicating its symptoms in mice using antibodies from patients with the condition. The study suggests that autoantibodies may be the underlying cause of CRPS, offering hope for potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPain·DateJul 2, 2014

'Deep learning' makes search for exotic particles easier

UCI researchers develop computing techniques that utilize deep learning to analyze data from particle accelerators, increasing the detection rate of rare particles by 8%. The methods could aid in the hunt for fundamental open questions about matter, gravity, and the origin of the universe.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 2, 2014
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

'Green buildings' have potential to improve health of low-income housing residents

A study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that green building standards can significantly improve indoor air quality, leading to reduced symptoms of respiratory problems like asthma. Residents in green homes reported 47% fewer 'sick building syndrome' symptoms, including headaches and eye irritation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 2, 2014

Hollow optical fibers for UV light

Researchers have developed a new type of optical fiber that can guide UV laser light without being damaged. The fiber has a hollow core with a diameter of 20 µm, which allows for single-mode transmission and reduces loss. This breakthrough enables new applications in precision spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and process plasmas.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalOptics Express·DateJul 2, 2014

Only 25 minutes of mindfulness meditation alleviates stress

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University discovered that brief mindfulness meditation practice alleviates psychological stress. The study showed that even just three consecutive days of 25-minute mindfulness sessions can reduce stress levels.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJul 2, 2014
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

New approach for tuberculosis drugs

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new approach for tuberculosis drugs, inspired by the bacteria-derived antibiotic pyridomycin. The new molecule is more stable and easier to produce synthetically, offering a potential solution to multidrug-resistant strains.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJul 2, 2014

NSF awards UT Arlington three-year $250,000 research grant on hazard mitigation

The University of Texas at Arlington has received a three-year, $250,000 National Science Foundation grant to collaborate with AIDICO on disaster mitigation research. The project aims to develop quick solutions to infrastructure and technology problems that arise from natural disasters, improving the resilience of civil infrastructure.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJul 2, 2014

Hazardous drinking in UK athletes linked with alcohol industry sponsorship

A new study by the University of Manchester and Monash University found a strong link between alcohol industry sponsorship and hazardous drinking among UK athletes. The research revealed that athletes receiving sponsorships from beer and pub industries were more likely to exhibit high levels of alcohol consumption.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateJul 2, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Toward a new way to keep electronics from overheating

Scientists discovered that liquids containing nanoparticles, known as nanofluids, have the potential to effectively cool devices. The study analyzed three types of nanofluids, finding one mixture of copper oxide and water to be the most effective coolant.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateJul 2, 2014

Zone tropical coastal oceans; manage them more like land resources: Scientists

Leading scientists warn that tropical coastal waters are under pressure due to growing populations and climate change, highlighting the need for holistic management approaches. They advocate for expanded use of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) to balance competing demands from fisheries, aquaculture, shipping, and other human activities.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateJul 2, 2014

Novel intravaginal ring shows promise for HIV prevention

A novel intravaginal ring demonstrated controlled drug release and safety in pig-tailed macaque monkeys, showing potential for HIV prevention. The ring's topical delivery reduces adherence issues, boosting effectiveness and minimizing side effects.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJul 2, 2014

Reinterpreting dark matter

New research opens up possibility that dark matter governs structure across whole universe, resolving puzzles in galaxy cores and formation timing. The theory suggests large stationary waves of dark matter called solitons could explain observed phenomena.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 2, 2014
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Wind shear wipes out Tropical Cyclone Elida

Tropical Storm Elida weakened to a remnant low due to strong wind shear. The National Hurricane Center reported maximum sustained winds of near 30 mph (45 kph), with the center moving southeast towards Mexico.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 2, 2014

SDSC assists researchers in novel wildlife tracking project

A team of researchers combined 3D technologies with advanced range estimator tools to provide detailed data on wildlife species' range and movements. This project utilized the San Diego Supercomputer Center's resources to create highly detailed data sets and visualizations, enabling faster calculations and improved accuracy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 2, 2014
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Superconducting-silicon qubits

Theorists propose using a bottom-up approach to create hybrid quantum devices by placing superconducting regions within silicon crystals. This could combine the benefits of both silicon spin qubits and superconducting circuits, enabling more robust qubit designs.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 2, 2014

The Lancet: Largest study to date finds insulin pumps result in better blood sugar control than multiple daily injections in people with type 2 diabetes

The OpT2mise trial found that insulin pumps result in better blood sugar control than multiple daily injections in people with type 2 diabetes. The study showed that patients using the pumps achieved a significantly greater reduction in average blood sugar levels and spent less time in hyperglycaemia.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 2, 2014
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

UCLA addresses 'lost in translation' issues in Chinese medicine

The UCLA Center for East–West Medicine has published a document to help students, educators, and practitioners evaluate and digest Chinese medical texts with greater sensitivity and comprehension. The 15-page document addresses translation-specific issues, technical terminology, and cultural perspective to promote accurate translations.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Integrative Medicine·DateJul 2, 2014

New reprogramming method makes better stem cells

Researchers have shown that stem cells created using different methods produce differing cells, with nuclear transfer ES cells being more similar to real ES cells. The findings could lead to improved stem cell therapies and ultimately, the development of personalized treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Genetic study reveals vulnerability of northwest dolphins

A recent genetic study found that northwest dolphins in Australia are more vulnerable to environmental change and localised extinctions due to their isolated populations. The researchers urge management agencies to preserve corridors for individuals to travel between populations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 2, 2014

Veterans with muscle injuries and mental health conditions more likely to end service

A new study from Michigan Medicine found that 60% of U.S. Army soldiers who couldn't return to a military career after an Iraq deployment had a muscle, bone or joint injury and nearly half had a mental health diagnosis. The strongest predictors of inability to continue serving were musculoskeletal conditions, psychological diagnoses, a...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJul 2, 2014

Gene type confers 26 percent chance of early celiac sign by age 5

A recent NIH-funded study found that children with two copies of a high-risk variant in specific genes have a 26% chance of developing early signs of celiac disease by age 5. The study also revealed higher rates of celiac disease in Sweden compared to the US and other European countries.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 2, 2014
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Polyphenols could yield small benefit for people with PAD

A pilot study found that participants with PAD increased their ability to walk unassisted after consuming dark chocolate rich in polyphenols. The improvements were modest but suggested a potential therapeutic strategy for countering cardiovascular complications.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 2, 2014

Hypertension, antihypertension medication, risk of psoriasis

A study published in JAMA Dermatology found that women with long-term hypertension are at a higher risk of developing psoriasis. Long-term use of beta-blocker medication also increases the risk of psoriasis. The study analyzed data from 77,728 women and found a significant association between hypertension and psoriasis risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateJul 2, 2014

Food allergies: A new, simple method to track down allergens

Researchers at EPFL have created a new method to track down allergens in foods, which can help develop customized therapies and provide higher accuracy than conventional allergy-testing methods. The method uses immunoaffinity capillary electrophoresis and mass spectrometry to identify specific proteins causing allergic reactions.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJul 2, 2014

Putting a price tag on the 2° climate target

A new study estimates that low-carbon energy options require additional investments of around $800 billion a year from now to mid-century. The researchers found that much of this capital could come from shifting subsidies and investments away from fossil fuels.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalClimate Change Economics·DateJul 2, 2014
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Computer-automated, time-lapse embryo photography may increase success of IVF

A new study suggests that using computer-automated, time-lapse embryo photography during in-vitro fertilization can improve embryo selection, leading to a higher chance of pregnancy. The technology allowed researchers to assess embryo development and predict which embryos were more likely to become viable blastocysts.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateJul 2, 2014

Desert design ... scorpions are master architects

Researchers discovered scorpion burrows have a warm platform to regulate body temperature before hunting, and a cool chamber to rest during the day. The design is common among all studied species, suggesting it evolved by natural selection to meet physiological needs.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 2, 2014

How you cope with stress may increase your risk for insomnia

A new study identifies maladaptive coping behaviors as mediating pathways between stress exposure and insomnia development. Cognitive intrusion, self-distraction, behavioral disengagement, and alcohol/drug use were found to significantly contribute to the relationship between stress and insomnia.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateJul 2, 2014
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Study estimates effect on surgery following national health insurance expansion

The study found a significant increase in discretionary surgery and a decrease in nondiscretionary surgery following the Massachusetts insurance expansion. This suggests that insurance expansion may lead to greater utilization of procedures for improving quality of life rather than addressing immediately life-threatening conditions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJul 2, 2014